8 arrested in operation targeting Santa Rosa County drug ring

SANTA ROSA COUNTY, Fla. ( WKRG ) — Eight people were arrested and a large amount of drugs were seized following a multi-agency narcotics operation, according to officials.

The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office shared in a news release that through the operation, which involved the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. State Attorney’s Office and various local law enforcement, it was determined that a drug operating ring was operating in the area.

Investigators identified the key networking connection for the drug ring in Santa Rosa County, according to the release. The following eight people were arrested between Sept. 17 and Sept. 24 in connection with the drug trafficking organization:

• Kristopher Duane Smith, 46, of Milton
• Curtis Harlow Merlan, 43, of Milton
• Neal Edmond Nesbit, 58, of Pace
• Dexter Lamar Causey, 39, of Milton
• Michael McQueen, 50, of Milton
• Willie Joe Barnes, 59, of Milton
• David Kennedy
• Roosevelt Jones

The above eight arrests included two federal arrests, three federal indictments and six state arrests, according to the release. The federal arrests and indictments were for Kennedy and Jones.

• Kennedy: conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500-4,999 grams of cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more mixture methamphetamine of cocaine, and less than 59 kg of marijuana
• Jones: Conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute less than 500 grams of cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute less than 500 grams of cocaine and less than 50 kilograms of marijuana

Alongside the above arrests, officials said a variety of items and drugs were seized.

• 5.6 kilograms of cocaine
• 7.75 pounds of marijuana
• 10.2 pounds of THC edibles
• 521 grams of methamphetamines
• 54 grams of hydrocodone
• 67 grams of fentanyl
• eight firearms
• $64,623 believed to be from drug sales

The following photos show what officials said was seized during the operation.

Officials said they were satisfied with the success of the operation.

“Having these illicit drugs off our streets is one step closer to ensuring the continued safety of our community,” the release said.

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